Goodness! the Russians are Coming

"Combining a murder mystery with astute asides on aspects of contemporary Austrian society, Eva Rossmann's tenth novel featuring Mira Valensky, a journalist who often stumbles into criminal investigations led by Dr. Zuckerbrot, is an entertaining and satisfying treat. A dead man is found on the terrace of a luxurious rooftop apartment in the center of Vienna. He is tied to a lounge chair, was apparently tortured, and there is a note, "You're the first. Greetings from Russia." Is he the rich Russian Mira saw on Arlberg? Who is responsible for the murder? Could it be Austrians seeking revenge for events during the post-World War II occupation, tough Russian businessmen and more sinister elements, or disgruntled investors in transnational ventures? Helped by her Bosnian friend, Vesna, Mira is determined to find out. Her investigations acquaint us with Austrian predilections and regulations, fine food, cooking as an aesthetic pleasure, unconventional relationships, and ambivalent feelings about the influx of wealthy Russians. Mira's curiosity brings her to Moscow and back, she is followed and attacked, but manages to solve the case and restore her personal life"--